Santa Monica is a shopper’s paradise–offering everything from luxury brands to unique local boutiques, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. With its coastal charm, the area offers an unbeatable retail experience. Whether you're looking for designer fashion, one-of-a-kind artisan goods, or everyday essentials, Santa Monica has it all.
Third Street Promenade: A Pedestrian Shopping Haven
One of the most famous shopping destinations in Santa Monica is Third Street Promenade. This iconic pedestrian street stretches three blocks and is filled with retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment.
It’s the perfect place for a casual shopping day. You can find everything from fashion retailers like Urban Outfitters and Anthropologie to well-known beauty brands such as Sephora. Shoppers can also find tech giants like Apple and Tesla, making it an all-encompassing experience for those who appreciate variety.
Beyond its array of stores, the Promenade is known for its lively atmosphere, with street performers, art installations, and outdoor seating areas creating a vibrant, dynamic shopping experience. It’s also a stone’s throw from the Santa Monica Pier, making it easy to mix shopping with some fun in the sun.
If you’re in the mood for a relaxing afternoon or looking for last-minute gifts, Third Street Promenade won’t disappoint. Plus, the open-air concept means you can enjoy the sunny weather while strolling from one store to the next.
Santa Monica Place: High-End Shopping by the Sea
Located at the south end of the Third Street Promenade is Santa Monica Place, an upscale open-air shopping mall offering luxury retailers and top-notch dining options. Santa Monica Place is home to a range of high-end brands, including Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., and Coach, making it the go-to spot for luxury shopping in the area.
Santa Monica Place also hosts Nordstrom, a multi-level department store where shoppers can find a mix of luxury and more affordable items all in one place. Whether you’re looking to invest in timeless designer pieces or shop the latest trends, this mall has something for everyone.
And when the shopping gets exhausting? Santa Monica Place has a rooftop dining deck with views of the Pacific Ocean, perfect for grabbing a bite while taking in the beauty of the coastline. Options like True Food Kitchen and Sonoma Wine Garden offer delicious meals with an unbeatable ambiance.
Montana Avenue: Boutique Shopping and Local Finds
For those who prefer a more intimate, boutique shopping experience, Montana Avenue is a must-visit. This charming street, located north of downtown Santa Monica, stretches for ten blocks and is filled with independently owned stores, cafes, and restaurants. It’s an excellent place to find unique clothing, accessories, and home décor that you won’t see in larger retail chains.
Montana Avenue is known for its high-quality offerings, from the fashion-forward collections at Rag & Bone to the curated designs at Brentwood General Store. Shoppers looking for eco-friendly beauty products will appreciate Credo Beauty, a standout spot on the street.
Main Street: A Mix of Trendy and Vintage
A bit more laid-back than Third Street Promenade, Main Street offers a unique blend of trendy and vintage stores with a touch of local flavor. Located just a few blocks from the beach, Main Street has a more relaxed, bohemian vibe than some of the other shopping destinations in Santa Monica.
Here, you’ll find a mix of well-loved national retailers and independent shops. Buffalo Exchange is a popular stop for vintage and second-hand clothing lovers, while stores like Planet Blue feature boho-chic styles that reflect the laid-back Southern California lifestyle. For art enthusiasts, Ten Women Gallery showcases handmade crafts and fine art by local artists, making it a great place to pick up a one-of-a-kind gift.
Main Street’s eclectic feel is enhanced by the variety of cafes and juice bars that line the street, perfect for grabbing a refreshing drink or snack between shopping stops. It’s also home to the popular Farmer’s Market on Sundays, where visitors can pick up fresh produce, local food, and handcrafted goods.
Ocean Avenue: Beachfront Shopping with a View
For those who want a shopping experience with a view, Ocean Avenue is the perfect choice. The street is lined with stylish hotels, cafes, and a few carefully curated shops like The Acorn Store, which specializes in eco-friendly children’s toys, and Room & Board, known for its contemporary furniture designs.
The real draw of Ocean Avenue is its location—right along the Pacific coastline, allowing shoppers to take in the beauty of the ocean as they peruse the stores. Ocean Avenue is ideal for those who enjoy a more relaxed, scenic shopping day paired with leisurely walks along the beach.
Reach Out to O'Connor Estates
Looking to buy or sell a home in Santa Monica? Reach out to O'Connor Estates to explore luxury real estate options in this exceptional area. Whether you’re seeking a beachfront property or a home close to Santa Monica’s top shopping destinations, O'Connor Estates can help you find the perfect place. Contact O'Connor Estates today to start your Santa Monica real estate journey.
